Abstract

Background

Overexpression and abnormal accumulation of aggregated α-synuclein (αS) have been
linked to Parkinson's disease (PD) and other synucleinopathies. αS can misfold and
adopt a variety of morphologies but recent studies implicate oligomeric forms as the
most cytotoxic species. Both genetic mutations and chronic exposure to neurotoxins
increase αS aggregation and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to
mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative damage in PD cell models.

Results

Here we show that curcumin can alleviate αS-induced toxicity, reduce ROS levels and
protect cells against apoptosis. We also show that both intracellular overexpression
of αS and extracellular addition of oligomeric αS increase ROS which induces apoptosis,
suggesting that aggregated αS may induce similar toxic effects whether it is generated
intra- or extracellulary.

Conclusions

Since curcumin is a natural food pigment that can cross the blood brain barrier and
has widespread medicinal uses, it has potential therapeutic value for treating PD
and other neurodegenerative disorders.